Dinge, die verbinden

Those who research heritage and identity constructions and engage with objects, places, or traditions focus on connections to things that are symbolically charged in different ways and become relevant as heritage for various groups. The fifth volume of the publication series of the graduate program "Identity and Heritage" highlights such relationships that produce and (de)stabilize things and their social contexts. The material aspects of heritage often reinforce narratives about supposed continuities, but they can also be driving forces for change. The contributions in this volume explore this tension. For instance, they examine the role of affects, questions about how things are instrumentalized in heritage processes, and what can be understood as 'substance', as well as the handling of material 'legacies'. So, what exactly are things, objects, or artifacts - and what meanings do they take on in heritage practices?.